Although there is still a lot that we don’t know about cannabidiol (CBD), some studies suggest that it may have medicinal effects on individuals with autism. If you’re interested in CBD for autism spectrum disease (ASD), here’s what you should know about current studies
What is autism spectrum disease (ASD)?
ASD refers to a group of neurodevelopmental disorders. ASD is diagnosed more frequently in boys than in girls, and the number of cases of ASD may be growing. Symptoms typically emerge between 12 and 24 months; however, they might appear earlier or later in life.
What exactly is CBD?
CBD is one of several chemicals discovered in the cannabis plant. It has been linked to various health advantages, including pain reduction, increased sleep, and alleviation of anxiety problems and addiction. CBD is classified into three types:
- Full-spectrum CBD: This contains all the cannabis plant’s components, including minimal trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana that makes people feel “high.”.
- Broad-spectrum CBD: This contains all the components in the cannabis plant (including flavonoids and terpenes) except for THC.
- CBD isolate: This contains only CBD and no additional substances derived from the cannabis plant.
CBD and autism
Currently, research into the effects of CBD for autism is limited.
- According to a 2018 study, CBD oil may help alleviate ASD symptoms in children. Still, the study recommended that efficacy and safety be further investigated through large-scale clinical trials.
- A more limited 2019 research investigated the impact of CBD on autism symptoms in people with epilepsy. The study indicated that all but one of the 15 persons having treatment improved.
- Another 2019 research study of 188 autistic people found that cannabis was well tolerated, safe, and beneficial for symptom treatment.
- Finally, a 2020 investigation examined CBD’s therapeutic significance in mental health, including its use as a therapy for ASD. CBD and CBD-containing substances were described as beneficial in symptom relief.
Always speak to your child’s doctor
Parents need to note that currently, experiments are being conducted to see whether CBD affects behaviours linked with ASD, such as irritability and aggressive behaviour, and whether it can lessen severe behaviour issues in autistic children.
While current research is intriguing, there is insufficient evidence to declare that CBD is undoubtedly beneficial for ASD. Before administering any medications to your child, always ensure your doctor has recommended or prescribed the treatment.
